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2024 Florida Statutes
Chapter 662
FAMILY TRUST COMPANIES
FAMILY TRUST COMPANIES
CHAPTER 662
FAMILY TRUST COMPANIES
662.10 Short title.
662.102 Purposes; findings.
662.111 Definitions.
662.112 Degrees of kinship.
662.113 Applicability of other chapters of the financial institutions codes.
662.114 Family trust company and foreign licensed family trust company licensing not required.
662.115 Applicability of chapter to a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company.
662.120 Maximum number of designated relatives.
662.121 Application for licensed family trust company; fees.
662.1215 Investigation of license applicants.
662.122 Registration of a family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company.
662.1225 Requirements for a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
662.123 Organizational documents; use of term “family trust” in name.
662.124 Minimum capital account required.
662.125 Directors or managers.
662.126 Fidelity bonds; insurance.
662.127 Segregation of books, records, and assets; fiduciary assets not liable.
662.128 Annual renewal.
662.129 Discontinuing business.
662.130 Powers of family trust companies, licensed family trust companies, and foreign licensed family trust companies.
662.131 Prohibitions.
662.132 Investments.
662.133 Oaths, affidavits, and acknowledgments.
662.134 Unlawful to advertise services.
662.135 Service as court-appointed fiduciary; bond requirement.
662.140 Rules.
662.141 Examination, investigations, and fees.
662.142 Revocation of license.
662.143 Cease and desist authority.
662.144 Failure to submit required report; fines.
662.145 Grounds for removal.
662.146 Confidentiality of books and records.
662.1465 Family trust company proceedings; public records exemption.
662.147 Records relating to the office examination; limited restrictions on public access.
662.148 Public records exemption.
662.150 Domestication of a foreign family trust company.
662.151 Registration of a foreign licensed family trust company to operate in this state.
662.10 Short title.—This chapter may be cited as the “Florida Family Trust Company Act.”
History.—s. 3, ch. 2014-97.
662.102 Purposes; findings.—The purposes of the Family Trust Company Act are to establish requirements for licensing family trust companies, to regulate persons who provide fiduciary services to family members of no more than two families and their related interests as a family trust company, and to establish the degree of regulatory oversight required of the Office of Financial Regulation over such companies. The public interest served by this chapter is to ensure that fiduciary activities performed by a family trust company are restricted to family members and their related interests and as otherwise provided in this chapter. Therefore, the Legislature finds that:
(1) A family trust company is not a financial institution within the meaning of the financial institutions codes. Licensure of such a company pursuant to chapters 658 and 660 is not required as it would not promote the purposes of the codes specified in s. 655.001.
(2) A family trust company may elect to be a licensed family trust company under this chapter if the company desires to be subject to the regulatory oversight of the office, as provided in this chapter, notwithstanding that the company restricts its services to family members.
(3) With respect to:
(a) A licensed family trust company, the office is responsible for regulating, supervising, and examining the company as provided under this chapter.
(b) A family trust company that does not elect to be licensed and a foreign licensed family trust company, the office’s role is limited to ensuring that fiduciary services provided by the company are restricted to family members and authorized related interests and not to the general public. The office is not responsible for examining a family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company regarding the safety or soundness of its operations.
History.—s. 4, ch. 2014-97; s. 1, ch. 2016-35.
662.111 Definitions.—As used in this chapter, the term:
(1) “Applicant” means the corporation or limited liability company on whose behalf an application for a license to operate as a licensed family trust company is submitted under s. 662.121.
(2) “Authorized representative” means an officer or director of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, if organized as a corporation; or a manager, officer, or member of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, if organized as a limited liability company.
(3) “Capital account” means the aggregate value of unimpaired capital stock based on the par value of the shares, plus any unimpaired surplus and undivided profits or retained earnings of a family trust company organized as a corporation; or the initial cash investment remitted for membership interests in a family trust company organized as a limited liability company, plus any undivided profits or retained earnings of the limited liability company.
(4) “Capital stock” means the shares of stock issued to create nonwithdrawable capital for a corporation, or membership interests issued to create nonwithdrawable capital for a limited liability company.
(5) “Collateral kinship” means a relationship that is not lineal but derives from a common ancestor.
(6) “Commercial banking” means the business of receiving demand and time deposits, paying checks, or lending money to the public.
(7) “Commission” means the Financial Services Commission.
(8) “Controlling stockholder or member” means an individual who owns or has the ability or power to directly or indirectly vote at least 10 percent or more of the outstanding shares, membership interest, or membership units of the family trust company or licensed family trust company.
(9) “Designated relative” means a common ancestor of a family, who may be a living or deceased person, and who is so designated in the application for a license or annual license.
(10) “Family affiliate” means a company or other entity in which one or more family members own, control, or have the power to directly or indirectly vote more than 50 percent of a class of voting securities of that company or other entity.
(11) “Family member” means:
(a) A designated relative.
(b) A person within the fourth degree of lineal kinship to a designated relative of a family trust company, or a person within the sixth degree of lineal kinship to a designated relative of a licensed family trust company.
(c) A person within the seventh degree of collateral kinship to a designated relative of a family trust company, or a person within the ninth degree of collateral kinship to a designated relative of a licensed family trust company.
(d) The spouse or former spouse of an individual qualifying as a family member and an individual who is within the fifth degree of lineal kinship to that spouse or former spouse.
(e) A family affiliate.
(f) A trust established by a family member if the trust is funded exclusively by one or more family members. A trust to which property has been transferred as a result of a family member’s exercise of a power of appointment shall be deemed established by that family member if all qualified beneficiaries of the appointee trust are family members.
(g) A trust established by an individual who is not a family member if all of the noncharitable qualified beneficiaries of the trust are family members, except that a trust composed exclusively of nonindividual qualified beneficiaries is considered to be a family member if all of the nonindividual qualified beneficiaries are charitable foundations or other charitable entities as described in paragraph (j).
(h) The probate estate of a family member.
(i) The probate estate of an individual who is not a family member if all of the noncharitable beneficiaries of the estate are family members, except that an estate composed exclusively of nonindividual beneficiaries is considered to be a family member if all of the nonindividual beneficiaries are charitable foundations or other charitable entities as described in paragraph (j).
(j) A charitable foundation or other charitable entity in which a majority of the governing body is composed of family members.
(12) “Family trust company” means a corporation or limited liability company that:
(a) Is exclusively owned by one or more family members.
(b) Is organized or qualified to do business in this state.
(c) Acts or proposes to act as a fiduciary to serve one or more family members.
(d) Does not serve as a fiduciary for a person, entity, trust, or estate that is not a family member, except that it may serve as a fiduciary for up to 35 individuals who are not family members if the individuals are current or former employees of the family trust company or one or more trusts, companies, or other entities that are family members.
(13) “Family trust company-affiliated party” means:
(a) A director, officer, manager, employee, or controlling stockholder or member of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company; or
(b) A stockholder, a member, or any other person as determined by the office who participates in the affairs of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(14) “Financial institutions codes” has the same meaning as provided in s. 655.005(1).
(15) “Foreign licensed family trust company” means a family trust company that:
(a) Is licensed by a state in the United States other than this state or the District of Columbia.
(b) Has its principal place of business in a state in the United States other than this state or the District of Columbia.
(c) Is operated in accordance with family or private trust company laws of the state in which it is licensed or of the District of Columbia.
(d) Is subject to statutory or regulatory mandated supervision by the state in which the principal place of business is located or by the District of Columbia.
(e) Is not owned by, or a subsidiary of, a corporation, limited liability company, or other business entity that is organized in or licensed by any foreign country as defined in s. 663.01(3).
(16) “Licensed family trust company” means a family trust company that operates in accordance with this chapter and has been issued a license that has not been revoked or suspended by the office.
(17) “Lineal kinship” means a family member who is in the direct line of ascent or descent from a designated relative.
(18) “Office” means the Office of Financial Regulation.
(19) “Officer” of a family trust company means an individual, regardless of whether the individual has an official title or receives a salary or other compensation, who may participate in the major policymaking functions of a family trust company, other than as a director. The term does not include an individual who may have an official title and exercise discretion in the performance of duties and functions, but who does not participate in determining the major policies of the family trust company and whose decisions are limited by policy standards established by other officers, regardless of whether the policy standards have been adopted by the board of directors. The chair of the board of directors, the president, the chief officer, the chief financial officer, the senior trust officer, and all executive vice presidents of a family trust company, and all managers if organized as a limited liability company, are presumed to be officers unless such officer is excluded by resolution of the board of directors or members or by the bylaws or operating agreement of the family trust company, other than in the capacity of a director, from participating in major policymaking functions of the family trust company, and such excluded officer does not actually participate therein.
(20) “Qualified beneficiary” has the same meaning as provided in s. 736.0103.
History.—s. 5, ch. 2014-97; s. 2, ch. 2016-35.
662.112 Degrees of kinship.—Degrees of kinship shall be calculated by adding the number of steps from a designated relative through each person to the family member, directly in the case of lineal kinship, or through the common ancestor in the case of collateral kinship.
History.—s. 6, ch. 2014-97.
662.113 Applicability of other chapters of the financial institutions codes.—If a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company limits its activities to the activities authorized under this chapter, the provisions of other chapters of the financial institutions codes do not apply to the trust company unless otherwise expressly provided in this chapter. This section does not limit the office’s authority to investigate any entity to ensure that it is not in violation of this chapter or applicable provisions of the financial institutions codes.
History.—s. 3, ch. 2016-35.
662.114 Family trust company and foreign licensed family trust company licensing not required.—A family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company is not required to be a licensed family trust company.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2014-97.
662.115 Applicability of chapter to a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company.—
(1) A family trust company that is not a licensed family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company is subject to the provisions of this chapter unless the provisions are expressly limited in applicability to a licensed family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company.
(2) A licensed family trust company is subject to the provisions of this chapter that expressly refer to a licensed family trust company or that are not expressly limited to a family trust company that is not a licensed family trust company or to a foreign licensed family trust company.
(3) A foreign licensed family trust company is subject to the provisions of this chapter that expressly state that such provisions apply to a foreign licensed family trust company.
History.—s. 8, ch. 2014-97.
662.120 Maximum number of designated relatives.—
(1) A family trust company may not have more than one designated relative.
(2) A licensed family trust company may have up to two designated relatives. The designated relatives may not have a common ancestor within three generations.
History.—s. 9, ch. 2014-97; s. 4, ch. 2016-35.
662.121 Application for licensed family trust company; fees.—An applicant seeking to operate as a licensed family trust company must file an application with the office on forms prescribed by the office, accompanied by a nonrefundable $10,000 application fee to be deposited into the Financial Institutions’ Regulatory Trust Fund pursuant to s. 655.049 for the purpose of administering this chapter. The application must contain or be accompanied by:
(1) The name of the proposed licensed family trust company.
(2) A copy of the articles of incorporation or articles of organization and the bylaws or operating agreement of the proposed licensed family trust company.
(3) The physical address and mailing address of the proposed licensed family trust company, which must be located in this state.
(4) A statement describing in detail the services that will be provided to family members by the proposed licensed family trust company.
(5) The name and biographical information of each individual who will initially serve as a director, officer, manager, or member acting in a managerial capacity of the proposed licensed family trust company.
(6) The name and biographical information of each individual who owns or has the ability or power to directly or indirectly vote at least 10 percent or more of the outstanding shares, membership interest, or membership units of the proposed licensed family trust company.
(7) The names of the designated relatives.
(8) The amount of the initial capital account of the proposed licensed family trust company and the form in which the capital was paid and will be maintained.
(9) The type and amount of bonds or insurance that will be procured and maintained on directors, officers, managers, or members acting in a managerial capacity or employees pursuant to s. 662.126.
(10) A statement signed by the applicant, or by the individual signing on behalf of the proposed licensed family trust company, under penalty of perjury, affirming that the following statements are true:
(a) The proposed licensed family trust company is not currently transacting business with the general public.
(b) No director, officer, manager, or member served as a director, officer, or manager, or acted in a managerial capacity, for a trust company or any other financial institution that had a license issued under the financial institutions codes or by the Federal Government or any other state, the District of Columbia, a territory of the United States, or a foreign country that was suspended or revoked within the 10 years preceding the date of the application.
(c) No director, officer, manager, or member acting in a managerial capacity has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere, regardless of whether adjudication of guilt is entered by the court, to a violation of the financial institutions codes, including s. 655.50, chapter 896, or similar state or federal law or related rule, or to a crime involving fraud, misrepresentation, or moral turpitude.
(d) No director, officer, manager, or member acting in a managerial capacity has had a professional license suspended or revoked within the 10 years preceding the date of the application.
(e) All information contained in the application is true and correct to the best knowledge of the individual signing the application on behalf of the proposed licensed family trust company.
(11) Any other additional information reasonably required by the office.
History.—s. 10, ch. 2014-97; s. 81, ch. 2015-2.
662.1215 Investigation of license applicants.—
(1) For the purpose of this section, the application is not deemed to be filed until the applicant has provided the office with all information required to be included pursuant to s. 662.121.
(2) Upon filing an application for a license to operate as a licensed family trust company, the office shall conduct an investigation to confirm:
(a) That the persons who will serve as directors or officers of the corporation or, if the applicant is a limited liability company, managers or members acting in a managerial capacity, have not:
1. Been convicted of, or entered a plea of nolo contendere to, a crime involving fraud, misrepresentation, or moral turpitude;
2. Been convicted of, or pled nolo contendere to, a violation of the financial institutions codes, including s. 655.50, chapter 896, or similar state or federal law;
3. Been directors, officers, managers, or members of a financial institution licensed or chartered under the financial institutions codes or by the Federal Government or any other state, the District of Columbia, a territory of the United States, or a foreign country, whose license or charter was suspended or revoked within the 10 years preceding the date of the application;
4. Had a professional license suspended or revoked within the 10 years preceding the date of the application; or
5. Made a false statement of material fact on the application.
(b) That the name of the proposed company complies with s. 662.123.
(c) That capital accounts of the proposed company conform to s. 662.124 and that fidelity bonds and errors and omissions insurance coverage required under s. 662.126 are issued and effective.
(d) That the articles of incorporation or articles of organization conform to s. 662.123(1).
(e) That the management structure of the proposed company complies with s. 662.125.
(3) If the investigation required under this section confirms that the applicant has met the requirements of ss. 662.1225, 662.123(1), 662.124, 662.125, and 662.126, and that the persons who will serve as directors or officers of the corporation or the managers or members acting in a managerial capacity of the limited liability company, as applicable, satisfy the criteria set forth in subsection (2), the office shall issue a license authorizing the applicant to operate as a licensed family trust company.
(4) If the office determines the criteria in subsection (2) have not been met, the office shall serve notice of its intent to deny the application and of the applicant’s opportunity to request a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
History.—s. 11, ch. 2014-97; s. 5, ch. 2016-35.
662.122 Registration of a family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company.—
(1) A family trust company that is not applying under s. 662.121 to become a licensed family trust company must register with the office before beginning operations in this state. The registration application must:
(a) Provide the name of the designated relative.
(b) State that the family trust company is a family trust company as defined under this chapter and that its operations will comply with ss. 662.1225, 662.123(1), 662.124, 662.125, 662.127, 662.131, and 662.134.
(c) Provide the current telephone number and street address of the physical location in this state of its principal place of operations where its books and records will be maintained.
(d) List the name and current street address in this state of its registered agent.
(2) A foreign licensed family trust company must register with the office before beginning operations in this state.
(a) The registration application must state that its operations will comply with ss. 662.1225, 662.125, 662.127, 662.131, and 662.134 and that it is currently in compliance with the family trust company laws and regulations of its principal jurisdiction.
(b) The registration application must provide:
1. The current telephone number and street address of the physical location of its principal place of business in its principal jurisdiction.
2. The current telephone number and street address of the physical location in this state of its principal place of operations where its books and records pertaining to its operations in this state will be maintained.
3. The current telephone number and street address of the physical location of any other offices located within this state.
4. The name and current street address in this state of its registered agent.
(c) The registration must include a certified copy of a certificate of good standing, or an equivalent document, authenticated by the official having custody of records in the jurisdiction where the foreign licensed family trust company is organized, along with satisfactory proof, as determined by the office, that the company is organized in a manner similar to a family trust company as defined under this chapter and is in compliance with the family trust company laws and regulations of its principal jurisdiction.
(3) The registration application required under this section for a family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company must be accompanied by a nonrefundable registration fee of $5,000.
(4) Registration applications required by this section shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the office and be signed, under penalty of perjury, by an officer or director if the family trust company is organized as a corporation, or by a manager, officer, or member if the family trust company is organized as a limited liability company.
(5) All fees received by the office pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the Financial Institutions’ Regulatory Trust Fund pursuant to s. 655.049 for purposes of administering this chapter.
History.—s. 12, ch. 2014-97; s. 82, ch. 2015-2; s. 6, ch. 2016-35.
662.1225 Requirements for a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.—
(1) A family trust company or a licensed family trust company shall maintain:
(a) A principal office physically located in this state where original or true copies of all records and accounts of the family trust company or licensed family trust company may be accessed and made readily available for examination by the office in accordance with this chapter. A family trust company or licensed family trust company may also maintain one or more branch offices within or outside of this state.
(b) A registered agent who has an office in this state at the street address of the registered agent.
(c) All applicable state and local business licenses, charters, and permits.
(d) A deposit account with:
1. A bank located in the United States and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; or
2. A credit union located in the United States and insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
(2) In order to operate in this state, a foreign licensed family trust company must be in good standing in its principal jurisdiction, must be in compliance with the family trust company laws and regulations of its principal jurisdiction, and must maintain:
(a) An office physically located in this state where original or true copies of all records and accounts of the foreign licensed family trust company pertaining to its operations in this state may be accessed and made readily available for examination by the office in accordance with this chapter.
(b) A registered agent who has an office in this state at the street address of the registered agent.
(c) All applicable state and local business licenses, charters, and permits.
(d) A deposit account with:
1. A bank located in the United States and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; or
2. A credit union located in the United States and insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
(3) A company in operation as of October 1, 2016, which meets the definition of a family trust company, must, on or before December 30, 2016, apply for licensure as a licensed family trust company, register as a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company, or cease doing business in this state.
History.—s. 13, ch. 2014-97; s. 83, ch. 2015-2; s. 7, ch. 2016-35; s. 14, ch. 2022-178.
662.123 Organizational documents; use of term “family trust” in name.—
(1) The articles of incorporation, certificate of incorporation, or articles of organization of a family trust company or licensed family trust company must contain:
(a) The name adopted by the company, which must distinguish the company from any other trust company formed in this state or engaged in the business of a trust company, family trust company, or licensed family trust company in this state. If the term “trust” is included in the name adopted by a family trust company, it must be immediately preceded by the term “family” so as to distinguish the entity from a trust company operating under chapter 658. This paragraph does not apply to a foreign licensed family trust company using a fictitious name that is registered and maintained pursuant to s. 865.09 and that distinguishes it.
(b) The purpose for which the company is formed, which must clearly identify the restricted activities permissible to a family trust company or licensed family trust company under this chapter.
(c) A statement that the company will not offer its services to the general public.
(d) A statement affirming that the articles of incorporation, certificate of incorporation, or articles of organization will not be amended without prior written notice to the office.
(2) A proposed amendment to the articles of incorporation, articles of organization, certificate of formation, or certificate of organization of a family trust company or licensed family trust company must be submitted to the office for review at least 30 days before it is filed or effective. An amendment is not considered filed or effective if the office issues a notice of disapproval with respect to the proposed amendment.
(3) The term “family trust” in the name adopted by a family trust company or licensed family trust company does not disqualify the name from being allowed under s. 605.0112 or s. 607.0401.
History.—s. 14, ch. 2014-97; s. 8, ch. 2016-35.
662.124 Minimum capital account required.—
(1) A licensed family trust company that has one designated relative may not be organized or operated with an owners’ capital account of less than $250,000. The minimum capital account shall be increased to $350,000 if two designated relatives of the licensed family trust company are named in the application for a license or in the annual license renewal. A family trust company may not be organized or operated with a capital account of less than $250,000.
(2) The full amount of the initial capital account of a family trust company or licensed family trust company must be composed of one or more of the asset groups described in s. 662.132(1)(a), exclusive of all organization expenses.
History.—s. 15, ch. 2014-97.
662.125 Directors or managers.—
(1) Exclusive authority to manage a family trust company or licensed family trust company is vested in a board of directors, if a corporation, or a board of directors or managers, if a limited liability company.
(2) A family trust company or licensed family trust company shall have at least three directors, if a corporation, or three directors or managers, if a limited liability company. At least one director or manager of the company must be a resident of this state.
(3) The licensed family trust company shall notify the office of the proposed appointment of an individual to the board of directors or addition as a member, or the appointment or employment of an individual as an officer or manager or member acting in a managerial capacity or equivalent position, at least 60 days before such appointment or employment becomes effective, if the company:
(a) Has been licensed for less than 2 years.
(b) Has undergone a change in control within the preceding 2 years.
(c) Is operating under a cease and desist order.
The notification must include the name and such biographical information as the office may reasonably require.
(4) A licensed family trust company may not appoint an individual to the board of directors, add a member, or appoint or employ an officer or manager or member acting in a managerial capacity or equivalent, if the office issues a notice of disapproval with respect to that person.
(5) The office shall issue a notice of disapproval if the office finds that the proposed appointment or employment of a person would otherwise cause the licensed family trust company to violate any of the requirements set forth in s. 662.121(10)(b)-(d) or s. 662.1215(2)(a).
History.—s. 16, ch. 2014-97.
662.126 Fidelity bonds; insurance.—
(1) The directors or managers of a licensed family trust company shall procure and maintain fidelity bonds on all active officers, directors, managers, members acting in a managerial capacity, and employees of the company, regardless of whether they receive a salary or other compensation from the company, in order to indemnify the company against loss because of a dishonest, fraudulent, or criminal act or omission on their part, whether acting alone or in combination with other persons.
(2) Each fidelity bond shall be issued in an amount of at least $1 million.
(3) In lieu of the fidelity bonds required under subsection (1), a licensed family trust company may increase its capital account required under s. 662.124 by $1 million so that if it has one designated relative, it is organized or operated with a capital account of at least $1.25 million, or if it has two designated relatives, it is organized or operated with a capital account of at least $1.35 million.
(4) The licensed family trust company shall also procure and maintain an errors and omissions insurance policy of at least $1 million in which it is listed as the insured to cover the acts and omissions of officers, directors, managers, and members acting in a managerial capacity, regardless of whether the person receives a salary or other compensation from the company.
(5) A family trust company or licensed family trust company may also procure and maintain other insurance policies necessary or desirable in connection with the business of the company, including, but not limited to, one or more casualty insurance policies.
(6) A family trust company that is not a licensed family trust company may procure and maintain fidelity bonds as described in this section.
(7) A family trust company that is not a licensed family trust company may procure and maintain errors and omissions insurance coverage as described in this section.
History.—s. 17, ch. 2014-97.
662.127 Segregation of books, records, and assets; fiduciary assets not liable.—
(1) Each family trust company and licensed family trust company shall maintain its fiduciary books and records separate and distinct from other records of the company and shall segregate all assets held in any fiduciary capacity from other assets of the company.
(2) Assets received or held in a fiduciary capacity by a family trust company or licensed family trust company are not subject to the debts or obligations of the company.
History.—s. 18, ch. 2014-97.
662.128 Annual renewal.—
(1) A family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company shall file an annual renewal application with the office on an annual basis no later than 45 days after the anniversary of the filing of either the initial application or the prior year’s renewal application.
(2) The license renewal application filed by a licensed family trust company must include a verified statement by an authorized representative of the trust company that:
(a) The licensed family trust company operated in full compliance with this chapter, chapter 896, or similar state or federal law, or any related rule or regulation. The application must include proof acceptable to the office that the company is a family trust company as defined under this chapter.
(b) Describes any material changes to its operations, principal place of business, directors, officers, managers, members acting in a managerial capacity, and designated relatives since the end of the preceding calendar year.
(3) The registration renewal application filed by a family trust company must include:
(a) A verified statement by an authorized representative of the trust company that it is a family trust company as defined under this chapter and that its operations are in compliance with ss. 662.1225, 662.123(1), 662.124, 662.125, 662.127, 662.131, and 662.134, chapter 896, or similar state or federal law or related rule or regulation.
(b) The name of the company’s designated relative or relatives, if applicable, and the street address for its principal place of business.
(4) The registration renewal application filed by a foreign licensed family trust company must include a verified statement by an authorized representative of the trust company that its operations are in compliance with ss. 662.1225, 662.125, 662.131, and 662.134 and in compliance with the family trust company laws and regulations of its principal jurisdiction. It must also provide:
(a) The current telephone number and street address of the physical location of its principal place of business in its principal jurisdiction.
(b) The current telephone number and street address of the physical location in this state of its principal place of operations where its books and records pertaining to its operations in this state are maintained.
(c) The current telephone number and address of the physical location of any other offices located in this state.
(d) The name and current street address in this state of its registered agent.
(e) Documentation satisfactory to the office that the foreign licensed family trust company is in compliance with the family trust company laws and regulations of its principal jurisdiction.
(5) The annual renewal application shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the office and signed under penalty of perjury by an authorized representative.
(6) A fee of $750 for a family trust company, $1,500 for a licensed family trust company, and $1,000 for a foreign licensed family trust company shall be submitted with the annual renewal application. All fees received by the office pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the Financial Institutions’ Regulatory Trust Fund pursuant to s. 655.049 for the purpose of administering this chapter.
History.—s. 19, ch. 2014-97; s. 9, ch. 2016-35; s. 15, ch. 2022-178.
662.129 Discontinuing business.—If a licensed family trust company desires to discontinue business as a licensed family trust company, it must file with the office a certified copy of the resolution of the board of directors, or members if a limited liability company, authorizing that action. Upon discharge from all fiduciary duties which it has undertaken, the licensed family trust company shall provide certification of such discharge and voluntarily relinquish its license to operate as a licensed family trust company to the office, whereupon it shall be released from any fidelity bonds that it maintained pursuant to s. 662.126(1).
History.—s. 20, ch. 2014-97.
662.130 Powers of family trust companies, licensed family trust companies, and foreign licensed family trust companies.—
(1) A family trust company or a licensed family trust company may, for its eligible members and individuals:
(a) Act as a sole or copersonal representative, executor, or curator for probate estates being administered in a state or jurisdiction other than this state.
(b) Act as an attorney in fact or agent under a power of attorney, other than a power of attorney governed by chapter 709.
(c) Except as provided in s. 662.131, act within or outside this state as a sole fiduciary or cofiduciary, including acting as a trustee, advisory agent, assignee, assignee for the benefit of creditors, authenticating agent, bailee, bond or indenture trustee, conservator, conversion agent, custodian, escrow agent, fiscal or paying agent, financial advisor, guardian, investment advisor or manager, managing agent, purchase agent, receiver, registrar, safekeeping or subscription agent, transfer agent, except for public companies, warrant agent, or similar capacities generally performed by corporate trustees, and in so acting possess, purchase, sell, invest, reinvest, safekeep, or otherwise manage or administer the real or personal property of eligible members and individuals.
(d) Exercise the powers of a corporation or limited liability company incorporated or organized under the laws of this state, or qualified to transact business as a foreign corporation or limited liability company under the laws of this state, which are reasonably necessary to enable it to fully exercise, in accordance with commonly accepted customs and usages, a power conferred under this chapter.
(e) Delegate duties and powers, including investment functions under s. 518.112, in accordance with the powers granted to a trustee under chapter 736 or other applicable law, and retain agents, attorneys, accountants, investment advisers, or other individuals or entities to advise or assist the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company in the exercise of its powers and duties under this chapter and chapter 736. Such exercise of power may include, but is not limited to, retaining a bank trust department, or a public trust company, other than another family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(f) Perform all acts necessary for exercising the powers enumerated in this section or authorized by this chapter and other applicable laws of this state.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in s. 662.131, a foreign licensed family trust company that is in good standing in its principal jurisdiction may exercise all the trust powers in this state that a Florida family trust company may exercise.
History.—s. 21, ch. 2014-97; s. 84, ch. 2015-2.
662.131 Prohibitions.—Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company may not:
(1) Engage in commercial banking; however, it may establish accounts at financial institutions for its own purposes or on behalf of family members to whom it provides services pursuant to this chapter.
(2) Engage in fiduciary services with the public unless licensed pursuant to chapter 658.
(3) Serve as a personal representative or a copersonal representative of a probate estate administered in this state.
(4) Serve as an attorney in fact or agent, including as a co-attorney in fact or co-agent, under a power of attorney pursuant to chapter 709.
History.—s. 22, ch. 2014-97.
662.132 Investments.—
(1) The assets forming the minimum capital account of a family trust company or licensed family trust company must:
(a) Consist of cash, United States Treasury obligations, or any combination thereof.
(b) Have an aggregate market value of at least 100 percent of the company’s required capital account, as specified in s. 662.124. If the aggregate market value of 100 percent of the company’s capital account is, at any time, less than the amount required under s. 662.124, the company has 5 business days to bring such capital account into compliance with s. 662.124.
(2) A family trust company or licensed family trust company may purchase or rent real or personal property for use in the conduct of the business and other activities of the company.
(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a family trust company or licensed family trust company may invest funds for its own account, other than those required or allowed under subsection (1) or subsection (2), in any type or character of equity securities, debt securities, or other assets.
(4) Notwithstanding any other law, a family trust company or licensed family trust company may, while acting as a fiduciary, purchase directly from underwriters or broker-dealers or in the secondary market:
(a) Bonds or other securities underwritten or brokered by:
1. The family trust company or licensed family trust company;
2. A family affiliate; or
3. A syndicate, including the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or family affiliate.
(b) Securities of an investment company, including a mutual fund, closed-end fund, or unit investment trust, as defined under the federal Investment Company Act of 1940, for which the family trust company or licensed family trust company acts as an advisor, custodian, distributor, manager, registrar, shareholder servicing agent, sponsor, or transfer agent.
(5) The authority granted in subsection (4) may be exercised only if:
(a) The investment is not expressly prohibited by the instrument, judgment, decree, or order establishing the fiduciary relationship.
(b) The family trust company or licensed family trust company procures in writing the consent of any cofiduciaries with discretionary investment powers to the investment.
(c) The family trust company or licensed family trust company discloses in writing to the person or persons to whom it sends account statements its intent to exercise the authority granted in subsection (4) before the first exercise of that authority, and each such disclosure reflects:
1. The nature of any interest the family trust company or licensed family trust company has, or is reasonably expected to have, in the underwriting or distribution of bonds or securities purchased.
2. The nature and amount of any fee or other compensation received, or reasonably expected to be received, by the family trust company or licensed family trust company in connection with the transaction.
3. The nature of the relationship between the family trust company or licensed family trust company and an investment company described in paragraph (4)(b).
4. The nature and amount of any fee or other compensation received, or reasonably expected to be received, by the family trust company or licensed family trust company for providing services to an investment company described in paragraph (4)(b).
(6) Subsections (4) and (5) do not affect the degree of prudence required of fiduciaries under the laws of this state. However, a purchase of bonds or securities pursuant to subsections (4) and (5) is not presumed to be affected by a conflict between the fiduciary’s personal and fiduciary interests if such purchase:
(a) Is negotiated at a fair price.
(b) Is in accordance with:
1. The interest of the qualified beneficiaries.
2. The purposes of the trusts.
(c) Otherwise complies with:
1. The prudent investor rule in s. 518.11, or other prudent investor or similar rule under other applicable law, unless such compliance is waived in accordance with s. 518.11 or other applicable law.
2. The terms of the instrument, judgment, decree, or order establishing the fiduciary relationship.
(7) Notwithstanding subsections (1)-(6), a family trust company or licensed family trust company may not, while acting as a fiduciary, purchase a bond or security issued by the company or its parent, or a subsidiary company thereof or its parent, unless:
(a) The family trust company or licensed family trust company is expressly authorized to do so by:
1. The terms of the instrument creating the trust;
2. A court order;
3. The written consent of the settlor of the trust for which the family trust company or licensed family trust company is serving as trustee; or
4. The written consent of every adult qualified beneficiary of the trust who, at the time of such purchase, is entitled to receive income under the trust or who would be entitled to receive a distribution of principal if the trust were terminated; and
(b) The purchase of the security is at a fair price and complies with:
1. The prudent investor rule in s. 518.11 or other prudent investor or similar rule under other applicable law, unless compliance is waived in accordance with s. 518.11 or other applicable law.
2. The terms of the instrument, judgment, decree, or order establishing the fiduciary relationship.
(8) Except as otherwise expressly limited by this section, a family trust company or licensed family trust company, while acting as a fiduciary, is also authorized, without limiting any powers otherwise conferred on fiduciaries by law, to do any of the following, which are not presumed to be affected by a conflict between the fiduciary’s personal and fiduciary interests:
(a) Make an equity investment in a closely held entity that may or may not be marketable and that is directly or indirectly owned or controlled by one or more family members.
(b) Place a security transaction using a broker who is a family member.
(c) Enter into an agreement with a family member who is the settlor or a qualified beneficiary of a trust with respect to the appointment of the family trust company or licensed family trust company as a fiduciary of the trust, or with respect to the compensation of the family trust company and licensed family trust company for service as a fiduciary.
(d) Transact business with a family member.
(e) Transact business with or invest in any asset of another trust, estate, guardianship, or conservatorship for which the family trust company or licensed family trust company is a fiduciary or in which a family member has an interest.
(f) Deposit trust assets in a financial institution that is owned, controlled, or operated by one or more family members.
(g) Purchase, sell, hold, own, or invest in a security, bond, real or personal property, stock, or other asset of a family member.
(h) With or without adequate security, lend money to or borrow money from a family member or a trust, estate, or guardianship for which the family trust company or licensed family trust company serves as a fiduciary.
(9) If not inconsistent with and subject to the terms of subsections (4)-(8), the duty of loyalty under s. 736.0802 applies to family trust companies, licensed family trust companies, and foreign licensed family trust companies when serving as trustee of a trust whose administration is subject to chapter 736.
History.—s. 23, ch. 2014-97; s. 10, ch. 2016-35.
662.133 Oaths, affidavits, and acknowledgments.—If a family trust company or licensed family trust company is required to make an oath, affirmation, affidavit, or acknowledgment regarding a fiduciary capacity in which it is acting or is preparing to act, a director or officer or, if the company is a limited liability company, a manager or officer expressly authorized by the family trust company or licensed family trust company, shall make and, if required, subscribe to such oath, affirmation, affidavit, or acknowledgment on behalf of the company.
History.—s. 24, ch. 2014-97.
662.134 Unlawful to advertise services.—A family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company may not advertise its services to the public.
History.—s. 25, ch. 2014-97.
662.135 Service as court-appointed fiduciary; bond requirement.—A licensed family trust company is not required to provide or otherwise post a bond or other surety to serve as a court-appointed fiduciary in a proceeding brought or conducted in this state.
History.—s. 26, ch. 2014-97.
662.140 Rules.—The commission may adopt rules necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
History.—s. 27, ch. 2014-97.
662.141 Examination, investigations, and fees.—The office may conduct an examination or investigation of a licensed family trust company at any time it deems necessary to determine whether the licensed family trust company or licensed family trust company-affiliated party thereof has violated or is about to violate any provision of this chapter, any applicable provision of the financial institutions codes, or any rule adopted by the commission pursuant to this chapter or the codes. The office may conduct an examination or investigation of a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company at any time it deems necessary to determine whether the family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company has engaged in any act prohibited under s. 662.131 or s. 662.134 and, if a family trust company or a foreign licensed family trust company has engaged in such act, to determine whether any applicable provision of the financial institutions codes has been violated.
(1) The office may rely upon a certificate of trust, trust summary, or written statement from the trust company which identifies the qualified beneficiaries of any trust or estate for which a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company serves as a fiduciary and the qualifications of such beneficiaries as permissible recipients of company services.
(2) The office shall conduct an examination of a licensed family trust company at least once every 36 months. The office shall examine the books and records of a licensed family trust company as necessary to determine whether it is a licensed family trust company as defined in this chapter and is operating in compliance with this chapter.
(3) The office shall examine the books and records of a foreign licensed family trust company as necessary to determine if it is a foreign licensed trust company as defined in this chapter and is in compliance with ss. 662.1225, 662.125, 662.130(2), 662.131, and 662.134. In connection with an examination of the books and records of the company, the office may rely upon the most recent examination report or review or certification letters or similar documentation issued by the regulatory agency to which the foreign licensed family trust company is subject to supervision. The office’s examination of the books and records of a foreign licensed family trust company is, to the extent practicable, limited to books and records of the operations in this state.
(4) For each examination of the books and records of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company as authorized under this chapter, the trust company shall pay a fee for the costs of the examination by the office. As used in this section, the term “costs” means the salary and travel expenses of field staff which are directly attributable to the examination of the trust company and the travel expenses of any supervisory and support staff required as a result of examination findings. The mailing of payment for costs incurred must be postmarked within 30 days after the receipt of a notice stating that the costs are due. The office may levy a late payment of up to $100 per day or part thereof that a payment is overdue unless waived for good cause. However, if the late payment of costs is intentional, the office may levy an administrative fine of up to $1,000 per day for each day the payment is overdue.
(5) All fees collected under this section must be deposited into the Financial Institutions’ Regulatory Trust Fund pursuant to s. 655.049 for the purpose of administering this chapter.
(6) The commission may establish by rule the records to be maintained or requirements necessary to demonstrate conformity with this chapter as a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
History.—s. 28, ch. 2014-97; s. 85, ch. 2015-2; s. 11, ch. 2016-35.
662.142 Revocation of license.—
(1) Any of the following acts constitute grounds for the revocation by the office of the license of a licensed family trust company:
(a) The company is not a family trust company as defined in this chapter.
(b) A violation of s. 662.1225, s. 662.123(1)(a), s. 662.125(2), s. 662.126, s. 662.127, s. 662.128, s. 662.130, s. 662.131, s. 662.134, or s. 662.144.
(c) A violation of chapter 896, relating to financial transactions offenses, or a similar state or federal law or related rule or regulation.
(d) A violation of any rule of the commission.
(e) A violation of any order of the office.
(f) A breach of any written agreement with the office.
(g) A prohibited act or practice under s. 662.131.
(h) A failure to provide information or documents to the office upon written request.
(i) An act of commission or omission that is judicially determined to be a breach of trust or fiduciary duty.
(2) If the office finds that a licensed family trust company has committed any of the acts specified in subsection (1), the office may enter an order suspending the company’s license and provide notice of its intention to revoke the license and of the opportunity for a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
(3) If a hearing is not timely requested pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57 or if a hearing is held and it has been determined that the licensed family trust company has committed any of the acts specified in subsection (1), the office may enter an order revoking the company’s license. A licensed family trust company has 90 days to wind up its affairs after license revocation. If after 90 days the company is still in operation, the office may seek an order from the circuit court for the annulment or dissolution of the company.
History.—s. 29, ch. 2014-97; s. 12, ch. 2016-35.
662.143 Cease and desist authority.—
(1) The office may issue and serve upon a family trust company, licensed family trust company, foreign licensed family trust company, or family trust company-affiliated party a complaint stating charges if the office has reason to believe that such company, family trust company-affiliated party, or individual named therein is engaging in or has engaged in any of the following acts:
(a) The company is not a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company as defined in this chapter.
(b) A violation of s. 662.1225, s. 662.123(1)(a), s. 662.125(2), s. 662.126, s. 662.127, s. 662.128, s. 662.130, or s. 662.134.
(c) A violation of any rule of the commission.
(d) A violation of any order of the office.
(e) A breach of any written agreement with the office.
(f) A prohibited act or practice pursuant to s. 662.131.
(g) A willful failure to provide information or documents to the office upon written request.
(h) An act of commission or omission that is judicially determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be a breach of trust or fiduciary duty.
(i) A violation of chapter 896 or similar state or federal law or any related rule or regulation.
(2) The complaint must contain the statement of facts and a notice of opportunity for a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
(3) If no hearing is requested within the time allowed by ss. 120.569 and 120.57, or if a hearing is held and the office finds that any of the charges are true, the office may enter an order directing the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, or family trust company-affiliated party, or the individual named therein to cease and desist from engaging in the conduct complained of and to take corrective action.
(4) If the family trust company, licensed family trust company, foreign licensed family trust company, or family trust company-affiliated party, or the individual named in such order, fails to respond to the complaint within the time allotted in ss. 120.569 and 120.57, such failure constitutes a default and justifies the entry of a cease and desist order.
(5) A contested or default cease and desist order is effective when reduced to writing and served upon the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, or family trust company-affiliated party, or the individual named therein. An uncontested cease and desist order is effective as agreed.
(6) If the office finds that conduct described in subsection (1) is likely to cause substantial prejudice to members, shareholders, or beneficiaries of fiduciary accounts of the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, or to beneficiaries of services rendered by such company, it may issue an emergency cease and desist order requiring the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, family trust company-affiliated party, or individual named therein to immediately cease and desist from engaging in the conduct complained of and to take corrective action. The emergency order is effective immediately upon service of a copy of the order upon the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, or family trust company-affiliated party and remains effective for 90 days. If the office begins nonemergency cease and desist proceedings under subsection (1), the emergency order remains effective until the conclusion of the proceedings under ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
(7) A family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company shall have 90 days to wind up its affairs after entry of any order to cease and desist from operating as a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company. If, after 90 days, a family trust company is still operating, the office may seek an order from the circuit court for the annulment or dissolution of the company. If, after 90 days, a foreign licensed family trust company is still operating, the office may seek an injunction from the circuit court restraining the company from continuing to operate in this state.
History.—s. 30, ch. 2014-97; s. 13, ch. 2016-35.
662.144 Failure to submit required report; fines.—If a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company fails to submit within the prescribed period its annual renewal or any other report required by this chapter or any rule, the office may impose a fine of up to $100 for each day that the annual renewal or report is overdue. Failure to provide the annual renewal within 60 days after the end of the calendar year shall automatically result in termination of the registration of a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company or revocation of the license of a licensed family trust company. A family trust company may have its registration or license automatically reinstated by submitting to the office, on or before August 31 of the calendar year in which the renewal application is due, the company’s annual renewal application and fee required under s. 662.128, a $500 late fee, and the amount of any fine imposed by the office under this section. A family trust company that fails to renew or reinstate its registration or license must wind up its affairs on or before November 30 of the calendar year in which such failure occurs. Fees and fines collected under this section shall be deposited into the Financial Institutions’ Regulatory Trust Fund pursuant to s. 655.049 for the purpose of administering this chapter.
History.—s. 31, ch. 2014-97; s. 14, ch. 2016-35.
662.145 Grounds for removal.—
(1) The office may issue and serve upon a licensed family trust company or a family trust company and a family trust company-affiliated party a complaint stating charges if the office has reason to believe that the family trust company-affiliated party is engaging or has engaged in conduct that:
(a) Demonstrates that the company is not a family trust company as defined in this chapter;
(b) Is a prohibited act or practice under s. 662.131;
(c) Is a violation of s. 662.1225, s. 662.123(1)(a), s. 662.126, s. 662.127, s. 662.128, s. 662.130, or s. 662.134;
(d) Is a violation of any other law involving fraud or moral turpitude which constitutes a felony;
(e) Is a violation of chapter 896, relating to offenses related to financial transactions, or similar state or federal law;
(f) Is a willful violation of a rule of the commission;
(g) Is a willful violation of an order of the office;
(h) Is a willful breach of a written agreement with the office; or
(i) Is an act of commission or omission or a practice that the office has reason to believe is a breach of trust or fiduciary duty.
(2) The complaint must contain a statement of facts and a notice of opportunity for a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
(3) If no hearing is requested within the time allowed by ss. 120.569 and 120.57, or if a hearing is held and the office finds that any of the charges in the complaint are true, the office may enter an order removing the family trust company-affiliated party or restricting or prohibiting participation by the family trust company-affiliated party in the affairs of the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or state financial institution, subsidiary, or service corporation.
(4) If the family trust company-affiliated party fails to respond to the complaint within the time allowed in ss. 120.569 and 120.57, such failure constitutes a default and justifies the entry of an order of removal.
(5) A contested or default order of removal is effective when reduced to writing and served on the family trust company or licensed family trust company and the family trust company-affiliated party. An uncontested order of removal is effective as agreed.
(6) The chief executive officer, or the person holding the equivalent office, of a family trust company or licensed family trust company shall promptly notify the office if he or she has actual knowledge that a family trust company-affiliated party is charged with a felony in a state or federal court.
(a) If a family trust company-affiliated party is charged with a felony in a state or federal court, or is charged with an offense in a court of a foreign country with which the United States maintains diplomatic relations which involves a violation of law relating to fraud, currency transaction reporting, money laundering, theft, or moral turpitude and the charge is equivalent to a felony charge under state or federal law, the office may enter an emergency order suspending the family trust company-affiliated party or restricting or prohibiting participation by such party in the affairs of that particular family trust company or licensed family trust company or any state financial institution, subsidiary, or service corporation, upon service of the order upon the company and family trust company-affiliated party charged.
(b) The order must contain notice of opportunity for a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57, at which the family trust company-affiliated party may request a postsuspension hearing to show that continued service to or participation in the affairs of the family trust company or licensed family trust company does not pose a threat to the interests of the company. In accordance with applicable commission rules, the office shall notify the family trust company-affiliated party whether the order suspending or prohibiting the company-affiliated party from participating in the affairs of a licensed family trust company or family trust company, or state financial institution, subsidiary, or service corporation will be rescinded or otherwise modified. The emergency order remains in effect, unless otherwise modified by the office, until the criminal charge is disposed of. The acquittal of the family trust company-affiliated party charged, or the final, unappealed dismissal of all charges against such person, dissolves the emergency order, but does not prohibit the office from instituting proceedings under subsection (1). If the family trust company-affiliated party charged is convicted or pleads guilty or nolo contendere, regardless of adjudication, the emergency order becomes final.
(7) A family trust company-affiliated party removed from office pursuant to this section is not eligible for reelection to such position or to any official position in a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or financial institution in this state except with the written consent of the office. A family trust company-affiliated party who is removed, restricted, or prohibited from participation in the affairs of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or state financial institution pursuant to this section may petition the office for modification or termination of such removal, restriction, or prohibition.
(8) The resignation, termination of employment or participation, or separation from a family trust company or a licensed family trust company of the family trust company-affiliated party does not affect the jurisdiction and authority of the office to issue a notice and proceed under this section against the company-affiliated party if such notice is served before the end of the 6-year period beginning on the date such person ceases to be a family trust company-affiliated party with respect to such company.
History.—s. 32, ch. 2014-97; s. 15, ch. 2016-35.
662.146 Confidentiality of books and records.—
(1) The books and records of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company are confidential and shall be made available for inspection and examination only:
(a) To the office or its authorized representative;
(b) To any person authorized to act for the company;
(c) As compelled by a court, pursuant to a subpoena issued pursuant to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, or the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or pursuant to a subpoena issued in accordance with state or federal law. Before the production of the books and records of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, the party seeking production must reimburse the company for the reasonable costs and fees incurred in compliance with the production. If the parties disagree regarding the amount of reimbursement, the party seeking the records may request the court having jurisdiction to set the amount of reimbursement;
(d) Pursuant to a subpoena, to any federal or state law enforcement or prosecutorial instrumentality authorized to investigate suspected criminal activity;
(e) As authorized by the board of directors, if in corporate form, or the managers, if in limited liability company form; or
(f) As provided in subsection (2).
(2)(a) Each customer and stockholder, if a corporation, or member, if a limited liability company, has the right to inspect the books and records of a family trust company or licensed family trust company as they pertain to his or her accounts or the determination of his or her voting rights.
(b) The books and records pertaining to customers, members, and stockholders of a family trust company or licensed family trust company shall be kept confidential by the company and its directors, managers, officers, and employees. The books and records of customers, members, and stockholders may not be released except upon the express authorization of the customer as to his or her own accounts or a stockholder or member regarding his or her voting rights. However, information may be released, without the authorization of a customer, member, or shareholder in a manner prescribed by the board of directors, if a corporation, or managers, if a limited liability company, to verify or corroborate the existence or amount of a customer’s account if that information is reasonably provided to meet the needs of commerce and to ensure accurate credit information. Notwithstanding this paragraph, this subsection does not prohibit a family trust company or licensed family trust company from disclosing financial information referenced in this subsection as permitted under 15 U.S.C. s. 6802, as amended.
(c) A person who willfully violates a provision of this section which relates to unlawful disclosure of confidential information commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
(d) This subsection does not apply to a foreign licensed family trust company. The laws of the jurisdiction of its principal place of business govern the rights of customers, members, and stockholders to inspect its books and records.
(3) For purposes of this section, the term “books and records” includes, but is not limited to, an application for a license and any documents connected with the application under s. 662.121; the office’s corresponding investigation under s. 662.1215 in granting or denying the issuance of the license; the initial registration documents of a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company under s. 662.122; the annual renewal made by a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company under s. 662.128; and the documentation submitted to the office in connection with a licensed family trust company discontinuing its business under s. 662.129.
History.—s. 33, ch. 2014-97; s. 86, ch. 2015-2.
662.1465 Family trust company proceedings; public records exemption.—
(1) In proceedings under chapter 736 or chapter 738 in which a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company is a party, upon written notice from any party to the clerk that this section is applicable, the clerk shall keep all court records of that case separate from other records of the court and not open to inspection by the public. Upon receipt of such written notice, court records of that case are confidential and exempt from s. 119.07 and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution and must be protected. For the purposes of this section, the term “court records” means the docket and all filings and other records of a case.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), court records may be inspected upon order of the court by persons deemed by the court to have a specific interest in the trust, a transaction relating to the trust, or an asset held or previously held by the trust and where the court determines there is a compelling need for releasing the information requested. In granting a right to any person to inspect court records, the court may limit access to such information as the court deems necessary and may place any reasonable restriction on further distribution of such information by such person.
(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1), the clerk shall make court records available to the following individuals:
(a) The settlor.
(b) Any fiduciary for the trust, including a trustee or trust director.
(c) Any beneficiary of the trust.
(d) An attorney for the settlor, a fiduciary, or a beneficiary of the trust.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2022-211.
662.147 Records relating to the office examination; limited restrictions on public access.—
(1) A family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company shall keep at the office it is required to maintain pursuant to s. 662.1225 full and complete records of the names and residences of all the shareholders or members of the trust company and the number of shares or membership units held by each, as applicable, as well as the ownership percentage of each shareholder or member, as the case may be. The records are subject to the inspection of all the shareholders or members of the trust company, and the officers authorized to assess taxes under state authority, during the normal business hours of the trust company. A current list of shareholders or members shall be made available to the office’s examiners for their inspection and, upon the request of the office, shall be submitted to the office.
(2) The office shall retain for at least 10 years:
(a) Examination reports.
(b) Investigatory records.
(c) The application for a license, any documents connected with the application, and the office’s corresponding investigation in granting or denying the issuance of the license.
(d) The initial registration documents of a family trust company or foreign licensed family trust company.
(e) The annual renewal made by a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(f) The documentation submitted to the office in connection with a licensed family trust company discontinuing its business and any related information compiled by the office, or photographic copies thereof.
(3) A copy of any document on file with the office which is certified by the office as being a true copy may be introduced in evidence as if it were the original. The office shall establish a schedule of fees for preparing true copies of documents.
(4) Orders issued by courts or administrative law judges for the production of confidential records or information must provide for inspection in camera by the court or the administrative law judge. If the court or administrative law judge determines that the documents requested are relevant or would likely lead to the discovery of admissible evidence, the documents shall be subject to further orders by the court or the administrative law judge to protect the confidentiality thereof. An order directing the release of information shall be immediately reviewable, and a petition by the office for review of the order shall automatically stay any further proceedings in the trial court or the administrative hearing until the disposition of the petition by the reviewing court. If any other party files a petition for review, it will operate as a stay of the proceedings only upon order of the reviewing court.
History.—s. 34, ch. 2014-97; s. 87, ch. 2015-2.
662.148 Public records exemption.—
(1) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Reports of examinations, operations, or conditions” means records submitted to or prepared by the office as part of the office’s duties performed pursuant to s. 655.012 or s. 655.045(1).
(b) “Working papers” means the records of the procedure followed, the tests performed, the information obtained, and the conclusions reached in an examination under s. 655.032 or s. 655.045. The term also includes books and records.
(2) PUBLIC RECORDS EXEMPTION.—The following information held by the office is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution:
(a) Any personal identifying information appearing in records relating to a registration, an application, or an annual certification of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(b) Any personal identifying information appearing in records relating to an examination of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(c) Any personal identifying information appearing in reports of examinations, operations, or conditions of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company, including working papers.
(d) Any portion of a list of names of the shareholders or members of a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company.
(e) Information received by the office from a person from another state or nation or the Federal Government which is otherwise confidential or exempt pursuant to the laws of that state or nation or pursuant to federal law.
(f) An emergency cease and desist order issued under s. 662.143 until the emergency order is made permanent unless the office finds that such confidentiality will result in substantial risk of financial loss to the public.
(3) AUTHORIZED RELEASE OF CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT INFORMATION.—Information made confidential and exempt under subsection (2) may be disclosed by the office:
(a) To the authorized representative or representatives of the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company under examination. The authorized representative or representatives shall be identified in a resolution or by written consent of the board of directors if the trust company is a corporation, or of the managers if the trust company is a limited liability company.
(b) To a fidelity insurance company, upon written consent of the trust company’s board of directors if a corporation, or its managers if a limited liability company.
(c) To an independent auditor, upon written consent of the trust company’s board of directors if a corporation, or its managers if a limited liability company.
(d) To a liquidator, receiver, or conservator for a family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company if a liquidator, receiver, or conservator is appointed. However, any portion of the information which discloses the identity of a bondholder, customer, family member, member, or stockholder must be redacted by the office before releasing such portion to the liquidator, receiver, or conservator.
(e) To any other state, federal, or foreign agency responsible for the regulation or supervision of family trust companies, licensed family trust companies, or foreign licensed family trust companies.
(f) To a law enforcement agency in the furtherance of the agency’s official duties and responsibilities.
(g) To the appropriate law enforcement or prosecutorial agency for the purpose of reporting any suspected criminal activity.
(h) Pursuant to a legislative subpoena. A legislative body or committee that receives records or information pursuant to such a subpoena must maintain the confidential status of such records or information, except in a case involving the investigation of charges against a public official subject to impeachment or removal, in which case records or information shall only be disclosed to the extent necessary as determined by such legislative body or committee.
(4) PUBLICATION OF INFORMATION.—This section does not prevent or restrict the publication of:
(a) A report required by federal law.
(b) The name of the family trust company, licensed family trust company, or foreign licensed family trust company and the name and address of the registered agent of that company.
(5) PENALTY.—A person who willfully discloses information made confidential and exempt by this section commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2014-102; s. 1, ch. 2019-31.
662.150 Domestication of a foreign family trust company.—
(1) A foreign family trust company lawfully organized and currently in good standing with the state regulatory agency in the jurisdiction where it is organized may become domesticated in this state by:
(a) Filing with the Department of State articles of domestication and articles of incorporation in accordance with and subject to s. 607.11922 or by filing articles of conversion in accordance with s. 605.1045 or s. 607.11933; and
(b) Filing an application for a license to begin operations as a licensed family trust company in accordance with s. 662.121, which must first be approved by the office, or by filing the prescribed form with the office to register as a family trust company to begin operations in accordance with s. 662.122.
(2) A foreign family trust company may apply pursuant to paragraph (1)(b) before satisfying the requirements of paragraph (1)(a); however, upon receipt of a certificate of authority, the company must satisfy the requirements of paragraph (1)(a) before beginning operations.
History.—s. 35, ch. 2014-97; s. 16, ch. 2016-35; s. 285, ch. 2019-90.
662.151 Registration of a foreign licensed family trust company to operate in this state.—A foreign licensed family trust company lawfully organized and currently in good standing with the state regulatory agency in the jurisdiction under the law of which it is organized may qualify to begin operations in this state by:
(1) Filing an application with the Department of State to apply for a certificate of authority in accordance with and subject to s. 605.0902 or s. 607.1503.
(2) Filing an initial registration to begin operations as a foreign licensed family trust company in accordance with and subject to s. 662.122 and subject to the sections of this chapter which specifically state that they apply to a foreign licensed family trust company.
History.—s. 36, ch. 2014-97; s. 17, ch. 2016-35.